LOW COOLANT n Leak

[abel01]

this is my 1st time in here, I have an 01 chevy Impala that im actually aboutto sell but just today it started leaking a tremendous amount of coolant i looked in and around radiator but saw no leaks, i looked under the car and seen that its leaking all under by the trans oil pan,can any one help im not very mechanic oriented

[abel01]

just found out the the leak is coming from the manifold gasket wich need to be replaced and the bypass house.

[crazy Jim]

The intake manifold on the 3.8 is too thin in one area and will deteriate (possibly due to the dex cool) and begin to leak. Better auto parts stores sell an improved intake manifold that suposedly alleviates the problem. The 3.4 engine has a similar problem but is repaired with just a gasket although it is major PITA to replace.

[abel01]

Originally Posted by crazy Jim

The intake manifold on the 3.8 is too thin in one area and will deteriate (possibly due to the dex cool) and begin to leak. Better auto parts stores sell an improved intake manifold that suposedly alleviates the problem. The 3.4 engine has a similar problem but is repaired with just a gasket although it is major PITA to replace.

yeah they are charging me 300 to replace the gasket.

['97ventureowner]

Originally Posted by abel01

yeah they are charging me 300 to replace the gasket.

That's actually not a bad price. I paid almost $700 back in '02 and have heard from others who've paid even more. You'll spend more at the dealer, but since this problem is widespread among several GM vehicles, independent shops are gaining more experience doing this job. You usually can get a better price at one of these shops. GM has also come out with a redesigned gasket in July '02 to correct the problem,along with the bolts which should be replaced. Also replace your thermostat, and radiator cap when doing this job.

[[email protected]]

Yep, definate problem with these cars. YOu will want to replace all gaskets that come in contact with the dexcool or you will have problems. Mine leaked in the area of the exhaust too and ruined my CAT converter (not cheap)

[luvmy02impala]

PITA to replace. I have to now replace the intake manifold gasket a 2nd time. I love spending $1000 at a time....

See :http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=649821:

[pepsi314]

Originally Posted by abel01

this is my 1st time in here, I have an 01 chevy Impala that im actually aboutto sell but just today it started leaking a tremendous amount of coolant i looked in and around radiator but saw no leaks, i looked under the car and seen that its leaking all under by the trans oil pan,can any one help im not very mechanic oriented

I had this problem and just needed a new radiator cap. Mine still seems to go through the coolant, but much slower than before.